Corruption crackdown

Wages for a Chinese worker will also remain low by global standards following the increase.

However, civil servants have traditionally been given performance bonuses and additional allowances for housing and travel on top of their basic salary.

But given the topic of government pay scales remains relatively taboo in China, no official breakdowns or amounts have been given.

Critics say low pay has been one of the main causes of corruption as workers in both the public and private sectors look to supplement their income.

The wage increases come amid a crackdown on corruption and lavish behaviour, and analysts believe that move will also have a positive effect on the economy.

"The central government is also working at lifting the wage received by low income earners and this will encourage the growth in the number of middle class people in China," investment bank Nomura wrote on 16 January.